On Wednesday, the county council adopted a measure to promote the export of the Victoria pineapple. This follows on from the concerns raised by farmers in July during the visit of the Minister of Agriculture. Under the leadership of Serge Hoareau, Vice-President in charge of Agriculture, the Standing Committee adopted the modification of the plant diversification aid scheme to help offset planting costs.
A maximum subsidy of EUR 16 504 [18,836 USD] per hectare may be granted for 0.25 to 3 ha for new Victoria pineapple plantations, if they are maintained for two consecutive cycles.
Current local production of Victoria pineapples (7,500 tons per year over 240 ha) is the second largest agricultural export income on the island. To remain competitive, producers want to double local production with the introduction of 200 to 250 additional ha, which could be implemented gradually over 3 years.
Other requests were made to the Minister of Agriculture asking for his support in certifying Victoria pineapples and help in exporting this product that is so popular abroad.
Source: clicanoo.re
